2004 Audi RS6 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi RS6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi RS6 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2004 Audi RS6. (445 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi RS6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 100 kg more than 2004 Audi RS6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi RS6 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi RS6. (560 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi RS6. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi RS6 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi RS6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi RS6 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS6 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 445 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
